Blackville man arrested on murder charge

Police have arrested a 21-year-old Blackville man following a shooting in which one man died and another was sent to the hospital.

Demetrius Donnell Smalls has been charged with murder, assault and battery with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, Blackville Police Department Chief John Holston confirmed today. The victim who was fatally shot was identified as Tarrance Mayes, 21, of Blackville. The other victim was Mr. Mayess brother, Vantrell Mayes, 24, who was in stable condition at Medical College of Georgia Hospital Friday and was expected to make a full recovery, the chief said.

The incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the 4300 block of Legion Road in Blackville. Chief Holston said Mr. Smalls began fighting with Terrance Mayes. Chief Holston said Mr. Smalls ultimately went to his vehicle and returned with a gun, shooting both victims. Mr. Smalls fled the area but turned himself in to authorities later that night, the chief said.